Isaiah 50:10
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Isaiah 50:10
10 Who is among you that feareth the LORD, that obeyeth the voice of his servant, that walketh in darkness, and hath no light? let him trust in the name of the LORD, and stay upon his God.
Chapter Context
Isaiah 50 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of discipleship, fellowship, righteousness. Written during the Assyrian and pre-exilic periods (c. 740-680 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Addressed Judah during Assyria's rise, Babylon's threat, and anticipated restoration.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-11: Development of key themes
This chapter is significant because it demonstrates God's faithfulness despite human unfaithfulness. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Isaiah and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Isaiah 50:10
10 Who is among you that feareth the LORD, that obeyeth the voice of his servant, that walketh in darkness, and hath no light? let him trust in the name of the LORD, and stay upon his God.
Analysis
The question 'Who is among you that feareth the LORD, that obeyeth the voice of his servant?' identifies the believing remnant. The condition 'that walketh in darkness, and hath no light' describes times when faith persists despite visible evidence. The command 'let him trust in the name of the LORD' prescribes response - not sight but faith. This establishes that genuine belief perseveres through darkness, not just prosperity.
Historical Context
Exiles who maintained faith despite temple's destruction and apparent divine absence demonstrated this trust. The principle applies to all 'dark night of the soul' experiences where God seems absent yet faith clings to His character and promises.
Reflection
- How do you maintain trust in God's name when walking through literal or metaphorical darkness?
- What is the difference between faith that requires visible evidence and faith that perseveres in darkness?
Word Studies
- God: אֱלֹהִים (Elohim) H430 - God (plural of majesty)
Cross-References
- Faith: Psalms 28:7, John 12:46
- References Lord: Psalms 25:14
- References God: Psalms 42:11
- Light: Isaiah 9:2, Job 29:3, John 8:12
- Parallel theme: Psalms 23:4, Hebrews 5:9, 1 Peter 5:7